The main treatment of inflammations and infections of the internal canal system of the dentition, especially the dental pulp and periradicular tissues is represented by endodontic treatment or root canal treatment.
The tooth is composed of three layers: enamel, dentin and cementum, in which is a soft tissue, called the dental pulp. It is the dental pulp which contains the nerves and the blood useful for the development of the tooth. During a root canal treatment, the dentist removes the pulp from the tooth, thus preventing the spread of infection and the extraction of the affected tooth.
After performing local anesthesia, the dentist places a dental dam around the affected tooth to prevent the bacteria in the saliva from entering. Using a small opening in the tooth, it removes the dental pulp and cleans the canal. The channel is then filled and sealed, and the tooth is closed.